Indian Super League: Bengaluru FC sign Spanish winger Antonio Dovale

Southern Eagles continue to add more Spanish flavour to their ranks ahead of the club's maiden ISL campaign...

Bengaluru FC has roped in Spanish winger Antonio Rodriguez Dovale for the 2017-18 Indian Super League campaign.

The 27-year-old ‘Toni’, as he is widely known, joins Bengaluru FC from Spanish Segunda Division side Rayo Vallecano and has now become the third Spanish player in the side alongside Juanan Gonzalez and Dimas Delgado.

Dovale spent his youth career at Obradoiro, FC Barcelona and Celta Vigo. He got his much-needed breakthrough at Celta Vigo, as he was promoted to the reserve side before making his first team debut in the Segunda Division in 2009.

Bengaluru's new wide man played an important role for Celta in the top-flight, helping them to an impressive 9th place finish in the 2013-14 season.

Antonio Dovale has also plied his trade in MLS for Sporting Kansas City in 2014.

Having penned a one-year deal, Toni was eager to begin his journey at Bengaluru FC. “I am very excited about this new challenge in my career. I know I am coming to a big club and just can’t wait to start training to achieve our objectives this season. I have a good experience as a professional player, and I think that this is a step forward in my career which will be very important,” he said.

Toni was also excited with the prospect of playing in front of the Blues’ faithful, which he regards as a vital part of the club. “The fans are very important for us and I know that they are always supporting the club. I want to assure them that I will do my best to help the club achieve our goals for the season. I am feeling the good vibes and hope that this season will be a successful one,” he added.

Albert Roca, Bengaluru FC Head Coach, welcomed Toni into the Blues’ fold. “Antonio is a good young player and a crafty winger. Having played at the highest level in Spain, he brings in vital experience which will help us in the season ahead. He still wants to continue improving and his desire to learn will help him settle in quickly,” said Roca.